Salisbury was 12-13 under Mazziotta this season, 6-10 in the Colonial League, in a year in which the team lost starter and steady contributor Hailey Undercuffler to an injury.

The program qualified for the district tournament for the first time since 2004.

Mazziotta was 27-42 in three seasons overall.

In three preceding seasons before Mazziotta's arrival, however, the progam was 14-56.

“It is my job to evaluate each coach and each program after every season and I felt that it was in the best interests of Salisbury that we make a change,” Deeb said. "I can't say anything more than that other than I wish Bob well and that we have an opening and are accepting applications."

But Mazziotta, a veteran coach who has guided local teams at all levels since 1980, did not mince words.

He felt he was undermined by the parents of one player who said basically that either he goes or she would transfer to another school.

Mazziotta declined to name the player and said she was a "wonderful girl with a lot of talent."

He added that "anyone who followed our team to any degree will know who am I talking about and I am not blaming the player at all. She's a great kid."

His issue was with the parents, who he said had set out for nearly a year to get rid of him and who have designs on coaching the team themselves.

He also took issue with how the situation was handled by Deeb.

He said he wanted to speak out and make sure people know he did nothing wrong.

His worst mistake, he said, was getting excited and accidently referring to his non-starters as "scrubs" during a game, which did get him in trouble with a few parents.

For the most part, however, Mazziotta said he and his coaching staff worked well with the girls and were making progress with a program that has struggled for many years.

"We went there with the idea of turning around a program that had been traditionally bad, and we were well on our way to doing that," Mazziotta said. "We were making strides. So, if the on-court stuff was moving in a successful direction, people are going to wonder -- why are you removing the coach? You replace him for another reason and people start speculating about that other reason. People are going to wonder 'What did he do?'

"I want to clarify and assert that I did nothing wrong. The reason I was let go -- and I can prove this with a year's worth of e-mails and other communications with [Deeb] -- is that the parents of one girl on our team wanted me gone and they used their daughter as a bargaining chip. They threatened to transfer her to another school if I remained the coach, even though PIAA rules still state you're not supposed to transfer for athletic reasons. It's a rule that seems to have no teeth nowadays, but it's still there."

Mazziotta said that Deeb's reasons for his ouster were things such as yelling too much at officials -- although he said he received just one technical in three years -- and not doing enough teaching. He said those reasons were basically contrived.

"She had problems with my brother, Mark, who was our JV coach, but I told her that Mark wouldn't be back," Mazziotta said. "She also said we lacked structure, which is something she got directly from the parents who are involved here."

Mazziotta said that before he learned of his dismissal, which came on March 22, he learned of a meeting between the parents, Deeb and acting principal Ken Parliman.

He said he also asked the player directly -- "If I return as coach, will you be here next year as well? And she looked me straight in the eye and said 'No coach, my parents will transfer me' and I believed her whole-heartedly."

Mazziotta, 62, said that he has no interest in coaching a high school team ever again.

"High school sports are now tainted and run by the wrong people," Mazziotta said.

"Parents feel they have so much license and so much of an entitlement to pick and choose coaches, and they can make all kinds of accusations," he said. "Parents only care about what happens for four years and then they're gone. I've told them at parent meetings that their whole perspective on what they're watching is based solely on their child. My perspective as a coach and the perspective of our staff is based on ALL of the kids and the entire program.

"Most parents only care about what their kid can get out of it and how much bragging they can do in the grocery line and it's because of people like [Deeb] that it's allowed to happen. I worked for six athletic directors and the other five I worked for backed their coaches."

Mazziotta said that he was proud of the job he did at Salisbury and he expects that whomever coaches the team next year -- and he said it could very well be the parents who caused his ouster -- will have great success.

"I won't root against the kids and I am not going to worry about who gets the credit," Mazziotta said. "I'm done with this nonsense. I've coached my last high school team.

"But I've been in this business for 37 years and coached at all levels from little-league kids to college men. Everywhere we went, I did my best and we were successful with programs that no one else wanted to touch. And I just don't want to go out with anyone thinking I didn't do my job or that I did something wrong. I dedicated myself to these kids and I wanted to see it through.

"I hesitated to come back this year already because I could see what was going on and how it was being handled and I thought push might come to shove and it did -- and I got shoved and kicked to the curb. These parents got their way and they will be the next head coaches because anything else is not good enough for them."

Prior to coming to Salisbury, Mazziotta coached the girls at Northwestern Lehigh from 1980-85, the Notre Dame boys from 1985-90 and the Lehigh Carbon Community College men’s team from 1997-2005. He was also an assistant coach at Northwestern for several seasons.

Current Comments

This seems to be the case at Salisbury for years. The same thing has happened with multiple sports over there. Being in the valley for years, salisbury has a reputation of crazy parents thinking they 'run the show,' and no AD has ever supported a coach as well. This is nothing new in that township.

It is the same at other schools too.
As has been the case forever, the parents with their four years of involvement, over estimation of their kid's skills and sense of entitlement of being taxpayers, they think they run the place.
Then with the administrators who become pawns, good coaches get fired.
You see it start in t ball and sadly it goes all through th height schools years.
Then it turns into the bogus college signing ceremonies which are nothing more than staged shows so mommy and daddy can brag in the grocery check out line like the coach said.
It is sad but it NEVER changes.
The AD is the one person who needs to support the coach.
But , the AD has bills to pay too.
Someone needs to get these parents in line, but it never happens. Sounds like more of the same at Salisbury.

Posted By: New Coach | Apr 1, 2012 1:15:25 PM

Very interesting article. If this goes on at Salisbury it makes one wonder about the bigger schools. Furthermore, A.D. Deeb was forthcoming in stating she reviews all of the coaches at the school. My question is: How good is Salisbury in football? If going .500 is grounds for termination (clearly there was more going on here with parents though) Salisbury would be hiring new coaches every year. All I can say is: this is same A.D. and school that let Jim Morgans get away...how is that working out for you Salisbury?

Posted By: BlueFalcon | Apr 1, 2012 2:17:00 PM

Parent entitlement is the problem. It starts long before high school. At Lindberg park during little league baseball, the parents park ON THE STREET instead of the parking lot which is a little farther away than street parking. The problem is that it is a very busy street and someone could easily be hit from oncoming traffic. But...the PARENTS don't think about safety, they just worry about their designer shoes getting stuck in the ground during their walk from the lot to the bleachers. How selfish, lazy and pathetic. I hope none of the children get hit by the innocent drivers passing by. "No parking " signs NEED to be installed before a tragedy occurs.

Posted By: honest abe | Apr 1, 2012 3:54:44 PM

Good for you Coach!!!!
It is so easy for a parent to watch their child for 4 years and tell you what you did wrong!!
You're willing to be in there for the long haul, however, these complainers who ALL think their child is better than than the next have no clue what competition and life are about.
Isn't it funny how people think their child is going to make it professionally in sports and someone held them back!!
As Joe Theisman recently stated at the VIA banquet ..."The best 6" are between your ears".

Posted By: Robert Kasper | Apr 1, 2012 3:56:50 PM

Keith, it's nice of you to give your blog over to Mazziotta so he can vent his opinions. Even though this is a newspaper's site, they are still just that - his opinions. So let's take a look at two FACTS.

First, it was not one player's parents who had issues with the coach. In reality, a large number of parents had issues. These were serious concerns, not the typical parent whining. 4 players quit during the season, and at least 3 others have stated they did not plan to play for this coach again. This includes at least two varsity starters. There were serious problems, and I recognize AD Deeb for making the right move in the best interests of the student athletes.

Second, this Freshmen class is one of Salisbury's most talented in years. (I feel safe stating that as a fact and not just my opinion.) They also had a number of talented varsity starters returning. To suggest 12-13 is some kind of breakthrough with this level of talent is misleading. Hopefully a new coach can come in, heal the wounds of this season, unite the team and show just how talented this group truly is next year.

To all those commenting, recognize that this blog shows only one side of the story. There is much more to tell, but rather than get into it, I'd rather simply wish the Coach well and move forward with a focus on what's best for the team and what's best for the players.

Posted By: Peter Parent | Apr 1, 2012 5:24:53 PM

If PETER Parent would check, he would discover that the 4 individuals who quit this season, did so due to their own personal agenda, which lacked wholeheartedly a team-first mentality. As a parent myself, I fully understand wanting to see your son/daughter succeed and excel in their extra curricular activities, and be treated fairly. However, there comes a point where parental concerns cross the line of rationale and enter the realm of ego maniacal and self serving idiocy. Yes the undefeated incoming freshman class was talented, however regardless who was coaching, no one can expect an entire group of FRESHMAN, regardless of talent, to compete against upperclassmen with leaps and bounds more experience. This is where a coach is entrusted to harness a players talent and develop them into productive high school players. this does not happen overnight. Unless the coaches of that wonderful undefeated team bought some magic potion from the guy that sold Jack his beanstalk bean to make freshman players equivalent to seniors and juniors of similar caliber, then a sane person can only expect their development to take some time. And!!! As I recall a FRESHMAN was the lead scorer this year.
As a previous person has posted, this is the school that let Jim Morgans go away. And all he does is win. I guess that is just one reason, why these parents and this school are content with their kids feeling happy and cheery, rather than winning.
In closing, I find it hard believe that a coach who has been coaching from grade school to COLLEGE teams since the eighties, as listed in the article, does not teach. Maybe you PETER, should try coaching the team. And, in case you were wondering, yes, I will reveal to you, that I played for this coach many many moons ago, and even though my skills were not overly impressive, I learned more about basketball from him in a year, that any other coach I have ever had!

Posted By: Paul Parent | Apr 1, 2012 5:58:20 PM

And another entitled parent trying to keep this horrible trend of not keeping student athletes accountable! Poor Peter Parent, what you dont realize is that you are SUPPORTING a poor work ethic, excuses, and quitting by your statement! What happens when these kids get older and dont get along with thier boss?? They should riot and quit?! Maybe they should run to their mommys and daddys and they can run that boss out of town?! GIVE ME A BREAK! Im sure your the same parent that when your kid fails a test, it's the teacher's fault?! Our society is so weak willed and full of complainers, its the mentality of 'Peter Parents' that enables this to happen. Did you ever think to tell your child to work harder and fight through adversity?? Did you ever tell your child that you have to work to get things in life?? No, you probably told your child that they are the best thing since sliced bread and its the coaches fault they are not a superstar! Shame on you!

Peter: If any parent wants to come forward and speak on the record and not hide behind anonymous names, I would be willing to print their comments in a blog post as well. My e-mail address is kgroller@mcall.com.

Posted By: Keith Groller | Apr 1, 2012 6:33:30 PM

As someone who has been a par of the coaching community at Salisbury I feel for the coach. I have never seen or heard of such a place where more unrealistic expectations are placed upon coaches. As soon as parents are not happy about playing time/team wins, the axe mob comes out and they start trying to garner other parent support to oust the person in charge. It's one thing if one coach is unsuccessful/not working well with the student athletes but this is becoming a pattern at Salisbury. First it was the softball coach, then the football coach, and now the girls hoops coach. Unfortunately Salisbury is earning a reputation in the coaching community as a place you do not want to go to because of the parents. I say "unfortunate" because it is their children who are suffering but their parents are too blind to see the big picture....

Posted By: Disgruntled | Apr 1, 2012 7:19:05 PM

Disgruntled,
I'm pretty sure that this bball coach taught his girls to miss shots and turn the ball over. I bet the old football coach told his players to not block and miss tackles on purpose, and I bet the softball coach demontrated for players how to strike out on purpose and make errors in the field. Welcome to the Salisbury parent mentality!!

As I recall Coach Bob came in because the previous Salisbury coach was verbally ridiculed by a parent who wasn't happy with his coaching style. Then one game he sat behind the bench and continued his verbal rants until the coach couldn't take it and he attacked the fan/parent. All parents sit with your mp3 players in your ears and just watch the game,we all will live longer

Posted By: are you kidding me | Apr 1, 2012 10:00:52 PM

Peter sounds like the typical whiny parent.
Thinks he knows it all, has evaluated all the talent, made the expert evaluation from his day desk job and by speaking with all the other disgruntled expert parents, then has gone and requested a meeting with the AD.
The AD then has to decide on getting a new coach due to this wave of experts who think their Johnny is the next Dr.J or Suzy is the next Nancy Lieberman. Because this freshman class of course is the greatest ever to come through Salisbury!
What a joke. It never ends and never changes.
Please folks give it a rest.

Posted By: New Coach | Apr 1, 2012 10:43:11 PM

I have known Coach Mazz since the late '80's. He has always been dedicated to his players and the game of basketball. I am saddened to see this happen to him. He deserves much better than this.

No, I didn't play for Mazz, I coached against him. He received my respect, because he earned it.

Posted By: Ed Lutterschmidt | Apr 2, 2012 10:19:53 AM

Parents have total control with Salisbury athletics. Speaking from experience. That's all.

Posted By: anonymous | Apr 2, 2012 10:55:54 AM

The solution is simple... do away with high school sports. Parents would be free to have their kids play for any club team they want. If the player is that good, the colleges with their infinite supply of athletic scholarships, will find them.The financial drain (coaches' and AD's salaries, field maintenance, officials fees, etc.) of sports would be removed from the school budget. As an added bonus schools might actually start emphasizing academics. When was the last time a school had a press conference to announce what college their valedictorian was going to attend?

Posted By: solution person | Apr 2, 2012 1:29:26 PM

"Journalistic truth" is a process that begins with the professional discipline of assembling and verifying facts. Then journalists try to convey a fair and reliable account of their meaning, valid for now, subject to further investigation. Journalists should be as transparent as possible about sources and methods so audiences can make their own assessment of the information.

I don't have enough information to form my own opinion so I won't comment extensively but I'd like to hear more from Ms. Deeb, I'd like to hear the other side of the story, I'd like the right questions to be asked. Right now, it's just an unedited, very bias blog.

Hard to believe that a journalist worthy of the name let a kid and her family be thrown under the bus without veryfying the facts he was given but a disgruntled coach.

Posted By: Nothing but the truth | Apr 2, 2012 4:29:12 PM

a: This is a blog, not a news article.
b: This was clearly never intended to be an investigative report, why do you assume it should be held to those standards?
c: No player was named by KG or the coach, so no player is "thrown under the bus" - unless you are jumping to your own conclusions.
d: Since you say you don't even know enough to form an opinion, how can you say KG is biased? Maybe he's 100% correct, it was verified, and this is just your own bias? Either way, you clearly have an opinion....
e: A long-time local coach departing in such a manner is certainly a blog-worthy discussion, even if we're hearing only one side of the story so far.
f: KG has offered to post a parent's rebuttal with attribution, just like the coach's comments. Of course anyone can post a rebuttal here anonymously any time.

I see nothing wrong with KG's post. Differing opinions appear to be welcome. Isn't that kind of discussion what this media is about?

Posted By: Mack | Apr 2, 2012 4:57:12 PM

Let's not be naive here and let's not play games. All of us who followed the team this year know whom we are talking about, including Mr. Groller. I understand that names can't be mentioned but come on... Was I bias? I can't disagree with you, but not on the content itself but rather on the form. And if you are honest as well, you'll see that there isn't much of a dialogue here. Mr. Peter Parent was quickly shut down by Mr. Paul Parent (whom we all recognized) trying to establish a dialog. I would of course hope that parents enlighten us with their concerns but I doubt it will ever happen. Let's wait and see how things unfold. No need to jump to conclusions yet.

Posted By: Nothing but the truth | Apr 2, 2012 5:37:50 PM

Again, the offer still stands. If the parents want to speak to me, I will listen to their side.

It has become apparent to me in the last few days that some people may have wanted this firing to go under the radar until a new coach was put in place.

I am sorry about that, but when a guy who has been coaching various area teams for more than 30 years calls me and tells me he has been fired, I am going to listen to what he has to say.

And I think most in the area basketball community where Mazziotta is a fairly well-known personality want to hear why a guy who has been around for a very long period of time was fired at this stage of his career. At least his opinion of why he was fired.

I asked the person who fired him to tell me why and she declined. I am not blaming her. Rules are rules, but that doesn't mean that Mazziotta didn't have a right to be heard on this matter when his reputation, 30 years in the making, is at stake.

As for the player who was supposedly thrown under the bus; I have not heard one negative comment about her from Mazziotta or anyone else. Mazziotta said several times she's a great kid. She is not at fault here. No one said she was. To me, her reputation as a fine young lady is intact.

Again, if the parents involved or any other parents with knowledge of the situation want to come forward, I will be happy to listen. But I want real names, not phony ones. 610-820-6740 is the office number and again, kgroller@mcall is the email address.

Other than offering a chance to speak, I don't know what else I can to help those who want their story out. But it can't be done anonymously.

Posted By: Keith Groller | Apr 2, 2012 6:33:16 PM

often you can tell the measure of a Man by how he handles adversity. I think the coach has shown us what kind of a man he really is. Bringing the child into this conversation is simply out of line.what I find even more reprehensible is Keith allowing this to happen.This is one of the most Irresponsible blogs I've ever read under the M. call banner.If I were the parents in question I certainly would not dignify this obviously bias blog with a response. Good job Keith.

Posted By: Stunned | Apr 2, 2012 9:09:17 PM

The child was brought into this conversation because that was a deciding factor in the ad's decision to fire the coach. If there is validity to the statements above than I ask you... What is worse? A coach telling his opinion of why he was dismissed? Or the parents who allegedly blackmailed the program into firing a seasoned coach by using their daughter as a bargaining chip? Just go back to your latte and remove your head from your posterior.

Posted By: Go Jayhawks | Apr 2, 2012 11:13:57 PM

It's not the player. The parents are to blame they are the same parents who scream at their poor daughter the whole game "post up "and the poor girl eats the ball about 8 times. But it's the coaches fault. The only fault of the coach was not having these nitwits thrown out of the gym.

Posted By: You, know who | Apr 2, 2012 11:33:20 PM

An A.d. is suppose to support their Coach. Looking at Salisbury sports I see a couple of common problems . 1. Lack of an A.D. Salisbury has an activity coordinator. I believe that's a title given for lack of qualifications to be an A.D. 2. Parents having unreasonable opinions of their childrens talent. I wish Coach Mazz nothing but the best. Your a class act. Some day Salisbury's School board will wake up and get to the real problem the lack of a TRUE A.D. An A.D. wouldn't be late for the first district game in 8 or 9 years .

Posted By: You, know who | Apr 3, 2012 1:23:32 AM

let me guess - it's the Hrebik's again - this time with the 2nd daughter?

Posted By: larry | Apr 3, 2012 3:29:11 AM

Thank you "Stunned". You proved my point. No dialog possible here. You either participate to Mazz love fest or you are supposed to shut up. Thanks for speaking up. Let's be clear here. Without the kid in question, they would maybe have won 6 games, without her parents, there is no feeder program in MS. Mazz should just thank them. I can't believe the lack of objectivity shown in this blog. And BTW, look at the wins. No need to be Geno Auriemma to beat Palisades, Catty, Pius or else.... The kids did it on their own. Coach was outgrown by the game. It was time to move on. AD did her job, for the good of the kids and the program. It's kind of funny to see some of you call parents and kids whiners when your hear from KG himself that the coach himself called him to cry about his fate. 30+ career does not make you immune to evaluation. The same way it would be done for a rookie coach. That's life. Get a grip and move on.

Posted By: Nothing but the truth | Apr 3, 2012 5:31:04 AM

Let's see the parents ran the feeder program. That team won game's by 30 and 40 points against inferior competition. Salisbury is probably the only school without a freshman team. Yet this very talented group came into the year not prepared at all for the next level. I guess Geno wasn't coaching the M.S. program either. The M.S. success did 1 thing it gave the parents a Resume. Nice try but if that's all you got it's not much. Saucon twice, Wilson, Nd east stroudsburg . Keep trying!

Posted By: You, know who | Apr 3, 2012 8:31:44 AM

Love the way Deeb says she evaluates every coach. Then why does she keep the varsity softball coach for all these years with a 6-54 record?

Posted By: pippysqueek | Apr 3, 2012 9:56:47 AM

In response to Larry it was the parents of the Eripret girl. The Eripret's used their daughter as a bargaining chip before the season even started. They threatened to send her to Central Catholic before the year began. They even met with Kopp over the summer but Kopp didn't want anything to do with the parents and who can blame him. In terms of the Middle School program they played no one spectacular. That happens every year the middle school teams are good then they get to the varsity level and can't do much. All good eight graders play freshman ball but Salisbury does not have a freshman team. Majority of the freshman parents expected their kids to come in and change the program immediately. Little do they know it does not work like that. Experience is a key factor on the varsity level. In terms of Coach Mazz I feel terrible for the man. I had the privelege of playing for him and he was one of the best coaches I ever had. He knew the game inside and out and the worst part is he did everything to please the Eripret's. Every time the ball crossed half court it was get the ball inside. That continued even when the post players would get their shots blocked four to five consecutive times. Coach Mazz did way too much to please the Eripret parents and it came back to bite him in the end. I feel terrible for the girl because she is a great kid and she will be good with time. I wish nothing but the best for Coach Mazz and hopefully Deeb realizes what a mistake she made by siding with the parents instead of her coach!

Posted By: Inside Info. | Apr 3, 2012 11:05:08 AM

First off, I will not hide behind some anonymous name. I am Dominic Mazziotta, the son of the coach in question. I have been following this blog with interest the last couple days, just to see what people's reactions would be. NO, my father is not aware I am typing this, and actually told me not to bother when I mentioned it to him.
Firstly, to the people on here who have voiced their support for my father; know that he is grateful for your support. I have personally witness my father, as well as his assistant coaches on more occasions that I can remember adamantly discussing the Salisbury program and ways to make it better, from the moment he took over the program, even right up until the day he was unexpectedly fired. He even issued pre posted envelopes to ALL his players, varsity and JV, at the end of the season so they could voice their concerns or comments in hopes of creating a better and/or more effective environment to learn. He received 3 responses! And all 3 were positive with good suggestions.
He also instituted a pre-season strength and conditioning program, which I personally oversaw, which was unheard of at Salisbury girls basketball. Coincidentally, the player in question showed up not once. Now, it was not a mandatory program, but most players made the concerted effort to show up as often as possible. I personally have never met the girl in question, and from what my dad has spoken about her, she seems like a bright young lady, with much potential. It was the parents who caused most of the controversy. I have seen the manner in which he dealt with these people, which was diplomatic and involved biting his tongue and suppressing his opinion on numerous occasions. Those of you who know my dad know he is quite opinionated. However, in this matter he chose to attempt to appease these people for the betterment of the program. Obviously, some people are never satisfied especially when they hold the bargaining chips. I can tell you that my father was greatly upset at what transpired and truly wanted to see this program and the girls succeed. He adamantly maintains this would have been the case if given the chance.
That is the last I am going to talk of my dad as my dad. Now I will talk of him as my former coach and as his former player. My basketball skills were mediocre at best. I never made a high school team, and played CYO those years instead. However, having taken the things he taught me about basketball, and combined with his work ethic, I was able to earn a seat on his college team (LCCC), not only as a benchwarmer, or "SCRUB," which I hear is such a no-no word, but I also was placed in the game at pivotal points and not when the game was decided. Many people thought that playing for my dad meant I was on easy street...they were misinformed. He was harder on me then anyone, not because he liked to see his son demeaned, as many parents would take it, but because he wanted to push me to be better, and motivate me to succeed, which he did. He maintains close relationships with many of his former players, and has always said that it means the most to him to have a player simply call him or talk with him and show their gratitude. I saw him help several underprivileged individuals throughout his college career without hesitation. Also, his coaching methods took players, who had no business on the floor with some teams, and not only made them competitive, but made them winners. He does not teach X's and O's and expect his players to go to a specific spot at a specific time like worn out drones. He teaches basketball sense and savvy, and the ability to make basketball related decisions in a split second to create a fluent and proficient offense/defense.
In closing, to you parents that still feel this was the way to go, sometimes you must sleep in the bed you have made for yourself. And to the parents, who support my dad, know he adamantly thanks you even if you are anonymous. He is looking forward to having more time for hunting and fishing already and wishes the program and its girls all the best.

Posted By: Dominic Mazziotta | Apr 3, 2012 11:46:01 AM

to all the know it all parents I hope you can sleep at nite knowing how you have hurt your daughters. And believe me you have, but then you just do not have a clue about how to be a good parent and love your children and do whats best for them not you. As for you ad Deeb you should be ashamed and hang your head for not having the courage to stand up to these parents and back Mazz like you should have. He was a wonderful and talented couch just ask the girls.

Posted By: you know me | Apr 3, 2012 12:26:37 PM

Well said Mr. Mazziotta. I do not agree with everything you said but I respect your opinion. As far as other comments, I think it's time for Mr. Groller to shut down this thread. Things are getting personal and not productive anymore.

Posted By: Nothing but the truth | Apr 3, 2012 12:36:19 PM

Funny to see how a father/daughter combination teamed up to post here under different names. Previous poster was right. It's time to put a stop to this nonsense.

Posted By: Outside info | Apr 3, 2012 12:52:47 PM

Just like in Politics these days both sides have dug their heals in the ground and either the coach is 100% right or he is 100% wrong depending on the side you fall on. (Coaches Son / Prior Players or Parents of Players that didn't have a good experience) Trust me both sides are at fault in this situation to some degree and people have inflated or skewed the facts for both sides to prove their point...I am sure the coach had good intentions and tried his best, but I am also sure the Coach isn't such a great coach as made out to be...What is his career coaching record and accmplishments? On the other side... Parents aren't these evil people or innocent people they are made out to be. Typically it is somewhere in the middle. Also, somehow all the freshmen parents from this school were dragged into this...come on...STOP - Let it go...

Posted By: Stop the madness | Apr 3, 2012 1:04:58 PM

Second coach that Salisbury parents ran out of town. Deeb doesn't know how to stand up to parents in that district and run her athletic program.

Posted By: IGiveLots | Apr 3, 2012 1:09:28 PM

To Larry. You have a lot of nerve insinuating that in any way are we involved. This is Lori Hrebik. The mother of the two players you have attacked. Just to make it known to you, we would not hide behind a fake name. Let it be known to you, that none of us have posted a blog this time or any other time. The whole incident is out of control and stupid. People hide behind these fake names and spout their mouth. The fallout that comes from people talking about each other is felt by the young ladies who are asked to play together. The sad thing is these young ladies are all great kids. Next time Larry make sure you know your facts before you accuse someone erroneously.

Posted By: Lori Hrebik | Apr 3, 2012 1:21:47 PM

Thanks Mr. Groller. Great job. Friendship is one thing, professionalism is another one. If I commend your loyalty to your friend, I deplore your lack of integrity and professionalism. You aggravated a situation that was difficult to start with by allowing people to throw insults at each other and to write many erroneous facts. You are responsible for the mess you created and for the chaos in the Salisbury basketball program. You owe an apology to all those people whose names were unfairly dragged in the mud, from Coach Mazz to the Eriprets, Hrebiks and all unnamed families and players. Most of them will be playing together next year or will be sitting next to each other in the stands. You don't care because you don't even cover girls basketball. Good luck to all the girls, the families and the new coaches. I'm sure success is ahead of you. Hang in there.

Posted By: Nothing but the truth | Apr 3, 2012 1:51:21 PM

This entire school district, as witnessed by all these entries shows it is made up of the mentality of entitled and mostly affluent snobs.
In other words, a country club school, from the AD right on down.
Keep firing coaches and when you can't get quality ones to apply, don't be wondering why!

Posted By: Underlying problem | Apr 3, 2012 2:01:48 PM

Now it's all my fault? Real nice spin job 'Nothing.' Guess you want to blame me for the high gas prices, too. All I did was give a 30-year veteran coach an opportunity, at his request, to tell his story of why he was fired. I also gave the athletic director a chance to tell me why he was fired. Nothing more, nothing less. I did not mention one parent's name, nor one kid's name. I didn't create the hard, strong feelings that obviously exist in this case. I certainly did not tell anyone to write a single comment on this board. Yet, this back and forth and two days worth of negativity is my fault? Unreal. Part of the problem in today's world is everyone assesses blame and no one takes responsibility. Do I think there are problems here? That's obvious. But the problems certainly existed before I posted the comments of Coach Mazziotta. I am exhausted of this topic myself, but to suggest that I caused this mess is absolute spin, and a slick way of deflecting attention and blame from the people who need to be held accountable and who have the ability to fix things.

Posted By: Keith Groller | Apr 3, 2012 2:24:17 PM

I'm sure the girl, or parents, in question are also farming their daughter out to as many AAU or club bball teams as they can. How many times have we seen kids go from one club to another, then to another, and the before we know it, they've played for 4 clubs in 4 years!

Why? Because noone seems to be able to make their little suzy a star! And when she's not the star, its the coaches fault and time to move on!

Seen it too many times to count.....

Parents do not want their kids to compete on a level playing field so they cajole with the coaches, become their best friends, only to dump them when their kids are not the stars!

Let you kids compete! Let them compete on a level playing field!

As bad as the Colonial League is in basketball, don't you think the cream will rise to the top? Even DIII players in the Colonial League are superstars!

If your kid can play, let her earn it! Stop influencing the coaches, stop running your mouth to other parents, and stop being jealous of your kids teammates.

Parents are the problem with sports; always have been; always will be.

Let's have the guts to call it like it is.... that kid, and her parents should be kicked out of the Salisbury Athletic program. But, as we've seen in the past, noone has the guts to do the right thing.

Posted By: Bubba | Apr 4, 2012 10:31:17 PM

Now that the very unexpected and sometimes humorous exchanges between those who think Mazz is great and those who think he is the worst coach in the history of mankind have subsided I would like to take this final opportunity to both address this subject and to move on to a life without basketball if I may. I must thank those (most of whom have responded in assumed names, but that's OK) for supporting me but I have to be honest; my sole interest here was to make sure that my good name as a person was not in any way demeaned by the Salisbury "director of student activities" penchant for following protocol and failing to address the issues as they occurred. I have received heartfelt statements from players that have played for me (including a few from Salisbury) and I sincerely appreciate those. However, this is not about whom is supporting whom. Coaches are dismissed every day. A myriad of reasons are in place for why these things happen. I understand that. Despite my many years and venues I have always understood that much has to do with where you are and when. Such is the case at this time. Certain parents that I trusted have (and I admire this) been able to use their significantly talented daughter to oust someone who had the audacity to not put Mommy or Daddy on the varsity bench so they could control (are you kidding me.) what went on. That these people ever thought that their presence could intimidate me to somehow coach in a different way is the most laughable thing I have heard in a long time. To that end let me say that I have never questioned their coaching of their significantly Undermatched middle school program. If these people will recall, I was the guy who engineered them being MS coaches. This was probably the blackest mark against me, but not for the reasons that recent events might indicate. I was a new coach and didn't want to lose a player that was clearly a difference maker. I gave in to the need for Salisbury to make a move for the first time in a long time. I sold out, just like Monica Deeb does on a daily basis and for someone who has built a reputation for not taking crap from anybody, that is unforgivable. What I am trying to say is that despite all the support and controversy, I have ended a career as a coach in a manner that I am truly ashamed of. I have supported an "athletic director" who missed the mandatory pre-game meeting of our district playoff game and then she spent much of what was a very competitive game "texting" or whatever, and never addressed the kids who played valiantly although the representative of the opposition took his time to do so. Despite her obvious disdain for me, her students deserved better. I will, as some of those out there will applaud, never again be any part of high school sports, however I hope there will come a day that the Monica Deebs are replaced by people with integrity and purpose. That just might return high school athletics to what they should be. I am not holding my breath. Bob Mazziotta

Posted By: Bob Mazziotta | Apr 4, 2012 11:00:20 PM

Excellent comments, coach! I'm sad to see that you were placed in this situation, partly because of some axe grinding by a lady who had too much anger built up towards you.
I only wish other coaches would come out and give their side of the story to the people on this blog. Keith Groller goes to great pains to give them a platform. None take advantage of it.
Two years ago Kyle Kern was fired by CCHS and hid from the public eye. We never found out what the real story was behind his departure. Thanks for giving us closure about your situation

Holbert

Posted By: Holbert Mulrooney | Apr 5, 2012 12:35:36 AM

Thank goodness for a coaching controversy.
Most comments in this space for the last six months combined.
It is strange to see the coach and his son commenting here, most times the school puts out the normal "spending more time with the family" crap and everyone moves on.
But, as has been shown here, there is a great deal of politics involved with these situations.
As the coach said, hopefully someday things may return to the days of yester-year where it seemed like situations were simpler.

Posted By: Commenter | Apr 5, 2012 8:50:55 AM

Why was this blog reopened? Can't we just move on? I don't know who's right or wrong and I don't care but it is very pathetic to see a disgruntled coach try to destroy people's reputation the way he just did. As far as I know, his contract was simply not renewed, reasons were kept confidential by the school administration, his name and reputation were never damaged but still, he had to drag people through the mud instead of letting it go. I would hope to think that the AD has real reasons to justify her decision and I'd be surprised if she did not have her supervisor's approval before acting. Right now, I am inclined to reserve all judgments until I hear from both sides. But I'll finish by saying that it's kind of ironic that Mr. Mazziotta seems to imply that parents on the bench are a potential problem while his son is talking about how great it was to have his Dad coaching him and pushing him hard. Do what I say, don't do what I do. That's bias I know but that's all I have to work with since only one side decided to go public.

Posted By: Sad Falcon | Apr 5, 2012 9:22:28 AM

This incident has caused me to gather many thoughts about what I’ve experienced as my children have gone through various sports programs while they were growing up. I’ve enjoyed watching them play and have always been proud of the dedication they’ve shown towards the sports they participated in. Both played on varsity teams at a large local high school and what I’ve observed over the years always draws me back to the same two thoughts. “There is nothing that ruins youth sports worse than adults with an agenda” and more importantly. “To find the systemic problems with youth sports follow the money.” My children loved playing but hated the politics and nonsense that have come to be associated with high school athletics. They felt so much pressure as teenagers that neither of them wanted to have anything to do with sports of any kind at the college level in spite of a real possibility of doing so. The reality that they were in school to learn first and play sports second was learned the hard way.
This blogger quickly proclaims innocence yet his adulation of teenage athletes and their accomplishments has shown you can make a 30 year career of it. His writings glorify teenage athletes and make them larger than life. This not only puts pressure on the kids but more so on parents who feel it is an obligation to make their children superstars if they show any athletic ability. Parents then put pressure on coaches (as appears to be the case here) because they feel if their little darling isn’t D1 material (with the free education) it must be the coach’s fault or heaven forbid they’ve failed as parents(we can't blame ourselves, after all). They’ve watched enough sports on tv to know everything there is to know about the game their child plays As we continue to follow the money let’s look at high school coaches who are pressured to win. Sadly, while some truly love coaching and are there for the kids, some of them use that success because there’s a lot of money to be made holding sports camps, etc. This continues into the AAU level with huge amounts of money to be made holding tournaments. Booster clubs get taken over by overeager parents not only to help the team raise money but to curry favor with coaches so their kids get preference. Hoop Group, Sporstfest and Stellar? Yep, you guessed it, more money to be made from putting more pressure on teenagers and their parents. More money to be made blowing it out of proportion. I’ve seen more obnoxious parents obsessed with their child in sports to last me a lifetime. I’ll stick to the high school level but it’s obvious from there on up that the money issue only gets worse. D1 athletics isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, mom and dad. The school literally owns athletes year round to the point of exhaustion and I’ve known girls who are worked so hard they skip their periods. The largest recent example is how many players from the recent NCAA basketball tournament will return next year? The answer is to follow the money. It’s way too easy to find more examples. Gee, is it any wonder that parents get caught up in this money game? A free education, maybe even a pro career, I can retire early!
The Morning Call ran a series of articles several years ago about the percentage of high school athletes who actually get sports scholarships of any type after graduation. In spite of the hype generated by local teenage sports worshipers at all levels the reality is that it is a very tiny percentage. It should be an obligation of the person who has made a nice living off these kids for over 30 years to run that story yearly as a wakeup call to parents who think their kid might be the next superstar. The odds are against it. That article should also be required reading for any parent who ever puts their child in any organized sport. After I read that article I came to several conclusions that I repeated to my kids every time they showed frustration with sports: It’s only a game. The sun will come up tomorrow regardless of the outcome. Life isn’t always fair but it will go on. I’m prouder of your 4.0 GPA than of anything you’ll ever do on an athletic field or court. You will have to rise or fall on your abilities, not on my ability to play politics, supply money or influence anyone. If you’re not having fun anymore then finish out the season and find something else you like better next year. Not everyone is a superstar. It’s only a game. That is reality. I think if more people, particularly parents, realized it is a game to enjoy and have fun and not chase the money the pressure on youth and high school sports would be much less exaggerated. In one of the gyms my kids played in there was a banner that said, "let coaches coach and let players play." Good advise, parents! I enjoy sports on many levels and find there are few things more enjoyable than watching a competitive contest between skilled players. Once the game is over, it’s over. A solid dose of reality about sports in general but at the teenage level in particular would be a huge breath of fresh air. It would help to wipe away the misconceptions, whether intentional or not, that exist with regard to high school athletes and the money that seems to be associated with it. To those obsessed parents I suggest that dose of reality before you make fools of yourself.

Posted By: Forward Observer | Apr 5, 2012 9:35:14 AM

Many good thoughts there. I'd like to add that more kids and parents should consider D3 sports if they really enjoy the sports and competition but understand the true value of a college education. Observer is right, if you're child gets a D1 scholarship, she is owned by the school 50 out of 52 weeks per year. Academics will NOT be her #1 focus. If you think differently, you have no knowledge of how D1 works. Exceptions might be the Ivies (no scholarships) and maybe Patriot League, though even in those leagues you have formal workouts 50 weeks/year including 6-8 hours/week all offseason and lots of travel.

Some of the better D3 programs are quite competitive, could easily compete with some lesser D1 schools. But the balance between academics and athletics is much more sane.

Unless the athletic scholarship is the only way to afford college (there's lots of need based scholarship/loans and academic scholarship for good students), I think parents should consider that in many cases they are actually harming their daughter's future by pushing for D1. You are sending the message that academics take a back seat and making it tougher for your daughter to succeed academically. Is that what you want? Are you stroking your own ego, or doing what's best for your daughter's future? Think about it....

Posted By: Mack | Apr 5, 2012 12:40:25 PM

"The solution is simple... do away with high school sports [, then] schools might actually start emphasizing academics."

"When was the last time a school had a press conference to announce what college their valedictorian was going to attend?"

Too bad you are only the Solution Person and not the Solution Implementer. Then maybe things would finally change for the better in schools.

Posted By: North Penn | Apr 6, 2012 5:29:30 PM

Typical Salisbury story. Parents (frustrated athletes ) trying to live through their kids. Good luck. Were talking about girls Basketball in The Colonial League. I just can't wait till all the complainers come out next year. What's gonna be your excuse next year. I got one for you. Not enough talent. Let's hope your next Coach can handle all the complainers. It's going to be fun watching all the parents from this disfunctional group. There's a reason I sat by myself for 4 years. Good luck achieving your unreasonable goals. I hope you all are happy that you ran a Coach out of town. I at least can put my name down. Not like the rest of you whiny cowards. Jack Undercuffler.

Posted By: jack | Apr 8, 2012 9:25:37 AM

THE TIMES HAVE CHANGED FOR BETTER OR WORSE. AS AN ASSISTANT COACH UNDER BOB MAZZIOTTA FOR THE PAST 3 YEARS, I WANT TO STATE THAT IT WAS AN HONOR TO WORK WITH HIM, THE OTHER ASSISTANTS, MARK AND BOB, AS WELL AS ALL THE GIRLS THAT WENT THROUGH THE BASKETBALL PROGRAM AT THAT TIME. MY PERSPECTIVE ON THIS IS AS A PLAYER AND FATHER OF A PLAYER. DIERUFF (CLASS OF 73, OUCH) UNDER COACH DICK TRACY AS A JV PLAYER AND COACH DICK SCHMIDT AS A VARSITY PLAYER. MY TIME WAS CUT SHORT AT MORAVIAN (UNDER TED ZAWACKI AND AL SENAVITIAS) DUE TO A REOCCURING KNEE INJURY AND SO-SO BALL HANDLING SKILLS. MY DAUGHTER PLAYED (CLASS 2004) AT LIBERTY UNDER COACH JOHN TONE. I’M NOT GOING TO REHASH ALL THAT HAS TRANSPIRED OVER THE PAST FEW DAYS, JUST GOING TO TRY TO THROW SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS OUT THAT MAY MAKE PEOPLE THINK LOGICALLY AND REFLECT IN A POSITIVE WAY TO ATTEMPT TO CORRECT CERTAIN THINGS. I’M OLD SCHOOL AND CONTRARY TO SOME PEOPLE’S THOUGHTS MAYBE THE GAME PHILOSOPHY HAS PASSED ME BY, BUT NOT SOME OF THE OTHER IMPORTANT INGREDIANTS SUCH AS CHARACTER, HONESTY, INTEGRETY, WORK ETHIC AND DEVELOPMENT OF TEAM BUILDING. CERTAINLY EVERY PARENT WANTS THE BEST FOR THEIR CHILD, THAT’S COMMON SENSE. THE QUESTION WE HAVE TO ASK OURSELVES IS AT WHAT COST? I HAVE FOLLOWED LOCAL SPORTS THROUGHOUT THE YEARS AND (LIKE EVERYONE ELSE WHO HAS) REALIZE, UNFORTUNATELY THAT WHEELING AND DEALING IN HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS HAS ALWAYS BEEN AROUND. I JUST HAVE NEVER WITNESSED IT FIRST HAND. THE FOLLOWING EXCERPT WAS DEVELOPED PRIOR TO THE END OF THE BASKETBALL SEASON. I WROTE IT DOWN WITH A FEW GAMES LEFT TO GO. IT WAS JUST SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS I WANTED TO COLLECT BECAUSE OF THE WAY THE SEASON HAD TRANSPIRED. ALTHOUGH NEVER IN MY WILDEST DREAMS DID I THINK THAT WHAT HAPPENED WOULD BE THE FINAL OUTCOME, I THOUGHT IF AN OPEN AND HONEST DIALOGUE WOULD TAKE PLACE, I COULD USE IT TO DEFEND BOB AND THE PROGRAM. THERE IS NOTHING NEW HERE, IT WAS THOUGHTS THAT WERE BROUGHT UP AT VARIOUS DISCUSSIONS THROUGHOUT THE SEASON. I REALIZE THERE ARE ALWAYS TWO SIDES TO A STORY. THIS IS ONE AND THE OTHER DESERVES REPRESENTATION, AS WELL OR TIME WILL ALLOW THINGS TO UNFOLD.

BY ALLOWING CERTAIN PARENTS TO ATTEMPT TO CONTROL THE DIRECTION OF THIS TEAM, THE CONCEPT OF TEAM COHESIVENESS, CHEMISTRY AND SPIRIT IN THIS PROGRAM IS BEING STYMIED. THIS COACHING STAFF HAS TAKEN A MEDIOCRE TEAM AND IN THREE YEARS TURNED IT INTO A COMPETITIVE AND WINNING ONE. THIS IS A PROGRAM THAT HAS BEEN HELD BACK BY THE WHINING, SELF-CENTERED INTRUSION OF A FEW ELITIST PARENTS WHO THINK THAT A TEAM IS BUILT AROUND INDIVIDUALS AND WHOSE ONLY CONCERN ARE THOSE INDIVIDUALS. I ADMIT THAT I PLAYED THE SPORT FORTY YEARS AGO AND SOME THINGS HAVE CHANGED BUT WHEN TAKING ONE FOR THE TEAM IS REPLACED BY TAKING ONE FOR THE INDIVIDUAL, SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG. THE SAD PART ABOUT THIS IS THAT SOME OF THE PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS ARE PEOPLE THAT HAVE PLAYED AND COACHED THE GAME. THEY, OF ALL PEOPLE SHOULD REALIZE BASKETBALL IS A TEAM SPORT. THIS INCLUDES AN ATHLETIC DIRECTOR THAT ENABLES THIS ACTIVITY TO TAKE PLACE.
THERE IS A FAÇADE THAT IS TAKING PLACE HERE THAT CRITICS WILL USE TO CHALLENGE WHAT IS TAKING PLACE ON THE HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL. IT INVOLVES HAVING A FEEDER PROGRAM THAT IS WINNING GAMES WITH SCORES LIKE 50-10 AND APPEARING LIKE ALL THE PLAYERS ARE DEVELOPING THE NECESSARY SKILLS TO COMPETE ON THE HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL. THIS IS NOT THE REALITY. UNTIL THESE YOUNGER PLAYERS PLAY UP TO BETTER COMPETITION AND THE EMPHASIS IS ON FUNDAMENTAL INSTRUCTION FIRST AS WELL AS WINNING AGAINST BETTER COMPETITION, AN UNDEFEATED SEASON IS FOOL’S GOLD. ANYONE WHO KNOWS ANYTHING ABOUT SPORTS KNOWS THIS.
THIS ME, MYSELF AND I MENTALITY THAT IS TRICKLING DOWN TO THE KIDS FROM THE PARENTS IS SOMETIMES DISPLAYED BY THE LACK OF SPIRIT, PRIDE AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE THAT SHOULD BE PRESENT WITH A WINNING PROGRAM. WE HAD A COMPETITIVE SEASON THIS YEAR. ONE GOAL WAS TO MAKE THE DISTRICT PLAYOFFS, WHICH WE ACCOMPLISHED. I CONSIDER IT A SUCCESSFUL SEASON TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE LACK OF EXPERIENCE MOST OF THESE GIRLS HAD PLAYING AT THIS LEVEL. BUT AT TIMES, INSTEAD OF TEAM PLAYERS COMING INTO THE LOCKER ROOM WITH SPIRIT, INTENSITY AND JOY AFTER WINNING BIG GAMES, SOMETIMES INDIVIDUALS CAME INTO THE ROOM WITH BASICALLY A FLAT AFFECT, MORE CONCERNED ABOUT PERSONAL ACCOMPLISHMENTS THAN THE TEAM’S ACCOMPLISHMENT. CONTRARY TO WHAT SOME OF THESE PARENTS THINK, IT IS NOT THE COACHING. WE’VE DONE MORE IN THREE YEARS WITH THIS PROGRAM THAN WHAT HAS TAKEN PLACE IN A LONG TIME.
WE DON’T HAVE A VESTED INTEREST IN ANY INDIVIDUAL. OUR CONCERN IS IN DEVELOPING THE KIDS AND IMPROVING THEIR TEAM ATTITUDE AND COMPETITIVE SPIRIT. THERE ARE GREAT KIDS AT SALISBURY AND THEY DESERVE TO EXPERIENCE THE FUN AND JOY THAT GOES ALONG WITH A WINNING BASKETBALL PROGRAM. IF THE POWERS THAT BE ALLOW THE PARENTAL INTRUSION TO CONTINUE THIS WILL NEVER TAKE PLACE. SOME SELFISH PEOPLE DO NOT WANT THIS TO TAKE PLACE. BOB MAZZIOTTA HAS MORE EXPERIENCE WITH COACHING AND HANDLING PLAYERS THAN MOST OF THESE SIDELINE CRITICS HAVE COMBINED. HE CAME HERE WITH KNOWLEDGE, ENTHUSIASM AND PURPOSE TO DEVELOP A WINNING ATMOSPHERE AND PROGRAM. WE WANT TO MAKE PLAYING BASKETBALL AT SALISBURY A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL THE GIRLS INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAM, NOT JUST A FEW. IF HE IS ALLOWED TO DO WHAT HE KNOWS BEST AND IS SUPPORTED 100% BY THE PERSON WHO IS SUPPOSED TO BACK HIM, THIS COULD BE A GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR ALL THE KIDS INVOLVED. IF THIS SUBVERSIVE CULTURE OF PARENTAL INTRUSION REMAINS CATERED TO AND FOSTERED THEN THIS PROGRAM WILL TURN INTO WHAT IT WAS PRIOR TO HIS INVOLVEMENT, MEDIOCRE AT BEST. THE TRAGEDY OF IT ALL IS THAT IT APPEARS THE PEOPLE CAUSING THIS HAVE NOWHERE NEAR THE CONCERN AND COMMITMENT THAT BOB HAS FOR THESE KIDS AND THE SALISBURY BASKETBALL PROGRAM.
A CHOICE CAN BE MADE. YOU COULD SUPPORT A COACH WHO IS A PERSON OF HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND FORTITUDE WHO IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE AND TURNING THIS PROGRAM AROUND. OR, YOU COULD CONTINUE ON THE SAME COURSE AND ALLOW THIS NONSENSE TO BE THE DISTRACTION AND SIDESHOW THAT HAS KEPT THIS PROGRAM DOWN FOR YEARS. IT IS A CULTURE THAT WE AS A COACHING STAFF ARE PUTTING A LOT OF TIME AND ENERGY TOWARD CHANGING. I THINK MOST OF THE GIRLS ARE STARTING TO GET IT AND LEFT TO THEIR OWN DEVICES, THEY ALL WILL GET IT. UNFORTUNATELY, THERE ARE SOME PARENTS; PAST AND PRESENT THAT DON’T WANT THEM TO GET IT.

Posted By: Joe Groller | Apr 14, 2012 8:41:04 AM

Why don't ask the players how they felt about him?

Posted By: Stupid Decision Deeb | Apr 16, 2012 6:16:36 PM

The major problem with todays athletic programs is the lack of funding toward sports. Schools have cut back added to the escalating costs caused by spoiling these athletes with unnecessary trips to far way tournaments, end of year gifts etc...

There was a time when Booster clubs had very little clout as they only help support teams with some minor trinkets and helped with more aid in supplying snacks and what not.

Todays world has booster clubs that are forced to generate most of the costs to run a program.
The athletic directors know they need this support and have climbed in to bed with these parents.

The officers and members feel they have a right to say "who plays" "who coaches" They spend countless hours raising money and feel they are more than justified in getting what benefits thier child.

There was a time where AD's backed thier coaches.
Not any more. Coaches are a dime a dozen to them.
Trying to replace the president of a booster club who raises thousands of dollars is much harder.
Now that is why we have what we have today.

Parents and booster clubs running the show and guess what. "We created it" We let it happen.

Solution - we don't need all these camps and tournaments. We don't need 3 or 4 sets of home and away jerseys. Lets get back to basics and have the AD's back thier coaches and keep the booster clubs at a distance with minimal support.
School districts need to allocate more money to athletics.

People stop leaving millions of dollars to your college. Think about your local high school and local athletic associations. The money stretches a lot further at that level.

Posted By: new school | Apr 17, 2012 9:02:31 AM

All I am going to say is that any parental issues here are with individual parents. The booster club is not involved. Booster club interference is not an issue here.

Posted By: Bob | Apr 17, 2012 11:45:24 AM

Wow, Parents, Coaches, Boosters, Funding....and I thought high school sports was about kids? Some interesting poiints were made in all of the rhetoric within this blog.
1. Politics - depending upon what side of the line you are on, either the graces of coaches or administrators versus NOT, we have developed a culture of have's versus have not's. What happened to playing the best kids, and working to develop those not so good to improve?
2. Parents - if you are 5'7 and your wife is 5'1 and both of you never played high school sports, what makes you think a few camps and some personal instruction is going to make your kid a DI athlete? If you barely graduated from high school and your spouse went to community college, what makes you think your kid will attain a full ride to Harvard? Clue in parents, Jimmy the Greek wasn't necessarily wrong!
3. Coaches - this has become a very challenging livlihood. If you take a job, and dont make your position clear to the search committee that is doing the hiring that you are the person in charge, then you deserve whatever you get. Today's long-term coaches have survived by 1 of 2 ways: A. investing in the feeder programs, including boan fide interest and personal time - see Steve Powell, head wrestling coach at Easton; or B. Kiss as much butt of administration, Superintendent, school board, AD, Asst AD, President of Parent Group, janitor, etc. It doesnt matter if you win or lose, what matters is if my little Johnnie or Jane get to the next level, attains all whatever awards, scores the most etc.
4. Winning - Success is measured in many ways. There are some very large schools in this area who have 0-3 athletes annually go Division I....0-3 out of 600 athletes, maybe! Developing talent is what its all about......give me a .500 coach who has a list of kids who go on to do well in all levels of college sports, and you will have a long-term coach.
5. Expectations - If you have kids who are dedicated, you will have a successful program. Finding dedicated athletes today is challenging. In a generation of parents with unrealistic expectations, mixed with a generation of kids who have been told since they exited the chute that they were "winners", "Special" and "gifted", only to find out that the opposing kid doesnt think so, is mind blowing.
6. Talent - I have learned in 50 years of sports, there are 2 things you cannot coach....talent and heart...you either have it or you dont, period. I have seen kids with talent, but no heart fail. Kids with heart but no talent fail. But mostly I see kids who generally lose the fire to play anymore because the parents have removed the fun, or the fire to compete.

Rather than handing out varsity letters like they are halloween candy, give them meaning. I would compare it to the academically skilled, however after attending a recent graduation where there were 4 Valedectorians and 6 Salutorian, I have come to realize that just about everyone is a winner. We are surrounded by the psuedoism of so many gifted and tallented individuals that I wonder how on earth anyone ever loses!